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Bikes for the homeless, poor a donation away

By JON WILSON
Published May 2, 2007

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Homeless people and other low-income folks might have a chance to get two-wheelers or improve the ones they have.

Some Pinellas County bicycle enthusiasts are planning a party 11 a.m. to noon Sunday at the St. Vincent de Paul Food Center, 401 15th St. N. The idea is to encourage and provide low-cost transportation.

"We got this national bike month, and we just want to help people out, " said Bill Beecher, the center's chef.

Organizers need donations of bike locks, headlights and taillights for people who already have bikes.

Tire patch kits, helmets, tubes, cycling gloves and gift certificates to St. Petersburg bicycle shops also are being sought.

New or used bicycles are also needed. A drawing will be held to give away the donated items.

Donations of food and money are needed to provide the meal. Items can be dropped off at the food center daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 821-3446.

Donors can also drop off non-perishable food and bicycle items at the Bike Room, 2805 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N during regular business hours.

Cycling advocate Kimberly Cooper, a familiar figure often seen handing out pamphlets around town, came up with the idea.

"Many of these people have jobs that pay so low they can't afford food or a home. They bicycle for transportation because they can't afford the bus or cars, " Cooper said.